Marshals Seek Convicted NH Child Rapist On Probation Violation

CONCORD, NH — The U.S. Marshals-New Hampshire Joint Fugitive Task Force is assisting Nashua police in locating a convicted child rapist who was accused of failing to register as a sex offender and who is also wanted on a probation violation.

Rafael Rivera is 54- or 55-years-old, due to four potential recorded birthdates, is about 5 feet, 7 inches tall, and weighs around 200 pounds. Originally from New Jersey, he has a number of tattoos on his chest, left arm, and right finger, hand, and forearm. According to Jeffrey White, a deputy marshal, Rivera has been known to also use the following aliases: “Luis Colon,” “Raphael Rivera,” “Jose Quinones,” and “Pete Jesus.” Rivera also has a noticeable scar on his left finger and hand.

“Rivera is being sought on an arrest warrant alleging that he has failed to register as a sex offender within five days of his release from prison after a conviction and sentence for aggravated felonious sexual assault,” White said. “Rivera was last known to be homeless in Nashua, NH, but his current whereabouts are unknown.”

White added Rivera was also known to have ties to Manchester. Warrants for his arrest were issued on Sept. 29 and Oct. 7.

In February 2020, Rivera was accused of nine sexual assault counts including pattern-aggravated felonious sexual assault, aggravated felonious sexual assault without penetration against a child under 13, and attempted felonious sexual assault of a child under 13. On July 23, he agreed to plead guilty to a single aggravated felonious sexual assault charge and received a five to 10-year prison sentence, all suspended for 10 years, with three years probation.

A violation of probation or parole charge was issued on Sept. 27.

If you see someone who looks like Rivera or you know who he is, do not try to apprehend him. Contact local police or the task force at 603-225-1632.

Rivera, according to superior court records, has a criminal record dating back to at least 2003. In January 2004, he faced a felon in possession of a dangerous weapon and receiving stolen property charges in Nashua and later, pleaded guilty to a single stolen property count. In 2005, Rivera was accused felonious sexual assault in Nashua but the charge was later nolle prossed. In 2006, he was accused of robbery but the charge was later dismissed. In Nashua in April 2008, he was charged with two controlled drug charges.

Editor's note: This post was derived from information supplied by the U.S. Marshals Service and does not indicate a conviction. This link explains the removal request process for New Hampshire Patch police reports.

Got a news tip? Send it to tony.schinella@patch.com. View videos on Tony Schinella's YouTube.com channel or Rumble.com channel.